Travel with Intention —
Culturally immersive travel for families and adults We are passionate about connecting people through language and culture.
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Kelsey Wilson and Amanda Cisneros started EdConnect Immersive Travel in September of 2022. We are experienced and knowledgeable about living abroad, learning a language, planning cross-cultural experiences, and most importantly, being moms! Our goal with this business is to do the heavy-lifting for the travel needs of you AND YOUR FAMILY. Our goal in life is to do everything with excellence and leave this world better and more-connected than we found it.
Meet the Balcazars!
Lindsey, Hernan, and their 2 boys are joining us in Medellin, Colombia this December.
“We can’t wait to experience the beautiful country of Colombia alongside other Ada Vista families! Our sons are half Colombian and this will be their first visit to their country of heritage. We are excited to be immersed in the culture, experience new cuisine, and practice using the Spanish language!"
*New Partnership*
Travec is excited to announce a new partnership with Legacy Christian School. Legacy families will have the opportunity to immerse in Colombian culture and Spanish language this summer in Medellin!
"I am excited for our Legacy families to have an opportunity for an immersive travel experience. I know first hand how much travel can impact our cultural awareness and expand our language skills. I can't wait to share that experience with my own family and our school community!" -- Stefanie Goudeaux, SI Lead and Trip Lead.
Do your kiddos attend Legacy Christian? Email [email protected] to learn more about this opportunity!
*NEW PARTNERSHIP*
Travec is partnering with South Christian High School to offer families a unique and immersive experience to Medellin, Colombia next summer! SCHS currently offers many student programs supporting interest in language and culture, but this will be their first family-oriented opportunity.
Rachel Mefor, Spanish Teacher at SCHS and trip leader states, "There are many students who want to travel on our current trips, but the families want to join them in that experience. This will be a great opportunity for the school and community."
We look forward to providing an enriching experience for the students and families on this trip.
Do your kiddos attend SCHS? Email [email protected] to learn more about this opportunity!
Meet your Trujillo City Host, Rachel! Her journey in Peru began back in 2006 when she first arrived as an intern, instantly falling in love with the country and its rich culture. What started as a brief stay has now blossomed into 18 years of adventure and deep connection. In 2011, Rachel founded Vive Peru to give back to the community and create opportunities for young leaders to immerse themselves in Latin American life.
Rachel is excited to welcome you and your family to her adopted hometown. With her two kids, ages 10 and 7, by her side, she’s eager to share the hidden gems of Trujillo—like the pre-Incan ruins, traditional reed boats in Huanchaco, and the art of making chocolate with local families. Beyond the sights, she’ll guide you through the unique cultural experiences that make Peru so special, from its mouthwatering cuisine to the warmth and hospitality of its people. Get ready to see Peru through Rachel’s eyes and fall in love with this incredible country just as she has!
We are celebrating two years! On this day two years ago, we sat down at Hall St Bakery with a dream to curate meaningful travel experiences for families and adults. Our original plan looked a lot different from how we actually operate today - we have learned what you seek in travel opportunities and have fine-tuned our offerings to provide top-notch experiences, focused on you. Here are some fun facts about Travec:
🌎 Our original name was EdConnect Immersive Travel.
🌎 Travec combines the words ‘travel’ and ‘avec’, which is French for ‘with’ - travel with intention, friends, locals, etc.
🌎 Our “maiden voyage” was a Group Adventure for families to Madrid, Spain - seven incredible families participated.
🌎 240 people have traveled with us or are registered for a trip.
🌎 We already have many repeat travelers, including three people/families participating in 3-4 different trips.
🌎 Our signature destinations are Madrid, Spain; Mérida, Mexico; Quepos, Costa Rica; Trujillo, Peru; and Medellín, Colombia.
🌎 We are currently planning a total of five Group Adventures for three different schools.
🌎 We organized a Sister City delegation from Grand Rapids to visit Zapopan, Mexico.
🌎 Our average rating for “overall satisfaction” on Group Adventures is 4.8/5.
🌎 100% of our past travelers say they would recommend Travec to friends.
🌎 We support local organizations.
🌎 We have an exciting announcement coming in October.
Thank YOU for trusting us to make your travel more meaningful, connected, and fun. We value you and serving you gives us joy. Thank you for two fantastic years, and here’s to many more.
Cheers! 🥂
Kelsey and Amanda
From the breathtaking landscapes to the unforgettable adventures, Travec ensures that your journey is not just a trip, but a story worth telling.
Ready for your next adventure? Join the Travec family and discover why our travelers are raving about us! 🌍 ✈️
From cobblestone streets steeped in rich history to the irresistible flavors of local cuisine, Trujillo, Peru has something for everyone. Connect with locals and share this experience with a community of like-minded families. Bonus - partner with non-profit organization, , in education and healthcare to serve the community!
This isn't your average vacation!
Say yes to new adventures this December! Picture yourself wandering through vibrant markets, discovering hidden gems in the heart of Mérida, and sharing stories over traditional Yucatecan meals. This journey is more than just a trip, every day is a chance to discover something new. View the trip details on our website: https://www.traveltravec.com/merida
Ready to discover the hidden gems of Trujillo? We've got a lineup of unforgettable experiences that will make your trip truly special. Here’s a sneak peek of what’s in store:
Day Trip to Salpo
Explore Salpo for the day including the breathtaking views from Balcon al
Cielo.
Huanchaco Boat Making
Learn how Caballitos de Totora (traditional straw boats) are made. Ceviche
and seafood lunch. Optional surfing and boat rides available
Community Engagement with VivePeru
Make a difference while you travel. Join us and our amazing partner in community projects that empower and uplift Trujillo’s local residents.
Pack your bags and get ready to explore, learn, and give back. 🌍✈️ Full itinerary can be found with the link below.
Itinerary link: https://bit.ly/4df3s3k
Located in West Michigan? Take advantage of these cultural festivities happening in August. See you there!
Save the date for these upcoming cultural festivals happening in Grand Rapids:
💙 8/16 - 8/17 at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church: Grand Rapids Yassou! Greek Cultural Festival welcomes locals and visitors to immerse themselves in Greek culture. The event features traditional Greek dances, live music, homemade food & desserts, imported libations, and more. 📸 Event Pictured.
❤️ 8/23 - 8/25 at Calder Plaza: Experience Polish culture at the Dozynki Polish Festival featuring Polish food, beer, music, vendors, food demos, and more! Join visitors and locals alike for this three-day celebration!
📆 Mark your calendar for additional upcoming cultural festivals: https://bit.ly/3WMRSWd
Almost everyone has heard of Cancun -- a popular resort town in the famous Yucatan peninsula. But what about the capital of the Yucatan peninsula? Merida, Mexico. Where colonial charm meets Mayan heritage.
Let's learn more about Merida...
1.) What are the must-see attractions in Mérida?
Must-see attractions include the Historic City Center, Paseo de Montejo, Mayan ruins of Uxmal and nearby cenotes, Progreso, and local markets like Lucas de Gálvez and Mercado de Santiago.
2.) Is Mérida safe for tourists?
Mérida is the 30th safest city in the WORLD.
3.) What is the best time of year to visit Mérida?
The best time to visit Mérida is from November to April, when temperatures are more comfortable and many cultural festivals take place. The rainy season is from June to October, with potential hurricanes in September and October.
4.) How do I get around Mérida?
Mérida has a reliable bus system, affordable taxis, and ride-sharing services like Uber. Renting a car is good for exploring outside the city. The city center is walkable, and bike rentals and colectivos (shared vans) are available for nearby travel.
5.) What are some local dishes I should try in Mérida?
Try cochinita pibil, panuchos, salbutes, sopa de lima, papadzules, and marquesitas for a taste of local cuisine.
You can visit Merida with Travec this December 2024 or April 2025. Visit our website for more information: traveltravec.com
Did you study abroad in college? Do you wish you could do it again? Or do you feel like you missed your chance? Why is so hard to find that type of experience as an adult?
Good thing you found Travec!
It’s all about diving deep into new cultures, gaining fresh perspectives, and challenging yourself in unexpected ways. We are talking about homestays, local connections, language practice, and more! We’ve got upcoming trips to Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Spain, and Costa Rica that offer just that. Head over to our blog to see how these experiences could be the adventure you’ve been looking for. Link in comments. ✈️
Imagine a week where you don’t just visit a city, but truly immerse yourself in its vibrant culture, rich history, and delectable cuisine. From the moment you land until the day you depart, every moment is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories.
Sip sangria with new friends, dance flamenco, explore ancient castles, and savor mouth-watering local dishes. Whether it's a relaxing day in the city or an adventure to nearby gems, there’s something for everyone.
Get ready to embrace Madrid’s heart and soul, make lifelong friends, and experience a week you'll never forget.
📸 Tag your travel buddies and start packing your bags! ✈️
Today is a special day at our company as both our founders, Kelsey and Amanda, are celebrating their anniversaries! 🎉 To honor this beautiful occasion, we asked them some fun travel questions about their significant others.
Here’s what they had to share:
1.) What’s the most memorable trip you have taken with your significant other?
Kelsey: We went to the Ryder Cup in Rome and then visited the Amalfi coast. It was amazing!
Amanda: China.
2.) What’s your go-to romantic getaway destination?
Kelsey: Anywhere without the kiddos and without work! 😅
Amanda: We don’t have a go-to because we like to explore new places, but our honeymoon in Hawaii was very romantic!
3.) What’s your dream anniversary destination?
Kelsey: Probably one of those over-the-water villas far away with no cellphone service!
Amanda: Mediterranean including Croatia
4.) What’s your favorite memory with your significant other?
Kelsey: On our honeymoon in Maine we took vespas up Cadillac mountain in Acadia National Park. It was so beautiful and we had so much fun that day!
Amanda: Meeting and dating in Spain.
Help us wish these incredible women a happy anniversary filled with more love and amazing journeys ahead!✈️
Spain, you’re beautiful ⛪️ ♥️ photo credit to a wonderful family visiting Spain via our Dream Destination services.
To celebrate the opening day of the Olympics, we’re sharing recipes for iconic international cuisines! Throughout the games, join us on a culinary journey and discover the world’s favorite dishes. Which country’s cuisine would win your gold medal? 🥇 Share your favorite dish in the comments and stay tuned for more delicious recipes from around the globe!
Cooking Instructions:
1.) Heat the olive oil in a large paella pan or a wide, shallow skillet over medium heat.
2.) Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened.
3.) Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4.) Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down and form a thick mixture.
5.) Stir in the rice, ensuring it gets coated with the oil and tomato mixture. Cook for a few minutes until the rice starts to look translucent.
6.) Pour in the broth, saffron with its soaking water, and smoked paprika. Stir well.
7.) Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8.) Nestle the chicken pieces into the rice mixture.
9.) Cook for about 10 minutes, then add the shrimp, mussels, and clams.
10.) Cook without stirring for about 20 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. If the rice starts to dry out before it’s fully cooked, add a bit more broth or water.
11.) Scatter the frozen peas over the top during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
12.) Remove the pan from heat, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
13.) Garnish with lemon wedges and chopped parsley before serving.
We invite you to join us on August 1st at 7:30PM EST for an informational session about upcoming group travel opportunities with Travec. We will discuss family travel, adult-only trips, and our Men’s and Women’s trips! Register via the link below. We hope to see you there! ✈️
Registration link: https://bit.ly/3zYK7Vn
Check out our latest blog post to see why Madrid is a must-visit destination. From beautiful architecture to lively culture, there is so much to explore! Head to the link below for all the details!✈️🇪🇸
Link: https://www.traveltravec.com/post/discover-the-magic-of-madrid-top-reasons-to-visit-this-october
Ready to explore the vibrant heart of Spain with Travec?!
Join us for a week filled with delicious local dishes, exciting day trips, and unique experiences like palace tours, bull ranch visits, and cooking classes. Come make new friends, immerse yourself in Spanish traditions, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Check out the full itinerary and pricing with the link here: https://bit.ly/3W9kkB9
🎆 Happy 4th of July from everyone here at Travec! 🇺🇸✨
Today, we celebrate the land of the free and the home of the brave. Whether you're enjoying a barbecue with family, watching fireworks, or simply relaxing, we hope your day is filled with joy and pride.
Stay safe, have fun, and keep exploring!
Visit historical sites and bring history lessons to life when you travel with Travec! Visit our website to view our upcoming trips!
We are beyond excited to introduce our new Social Media Manager, Julie Lamphear! 🌟
Julie brings a wealth of experience and a passion for all things social media. With her creative vision and strategic mindset, we can't wait to see how she'll elevate our online presence.
Join us in giving Julie a warm welcome! 👋 ✈️
Trujillo, Peru 🇵🇪
What should you know about this beautiful city on the northwestern coast?
1. Colonial Architecture: Trujillo is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture. The historic center of the city features beautiful, brightly colored buildings with intricate wrought-iron windows and wooden balconies, reflecting Spanish colonial influence.
2. Moche and Chimu Cultures: Trujillo is near the ancient ruins of two significant pre-Columbian civilizations, the Moche and the Chimu. The Moche site of Huaca de la Luna and the Chimu capital of Chan Chan, the largest adobe city in the world, are major archaeological attractions that provide a glimpse into Peru’s rich history before the Inca Empire.
3. Capital of the Marinera Dance: Trujillo is often referred to as the “Capital of the Marinera,” a traditional Peruvian dance characterized by its elegant and romantic style. The city hosts the annual National Marinera Festival, which attracts dancers from all over the country and showcases this important aspect of Peruvian culture.
Guess this iconic site….comment below! **hint: it is in one of our signature destinations
We’re thrilled to announce that Travec has hit 1000 followers! A huge thank you to our amazing community for your support. Here’s to many more adventures ahead- and our next 1000 followers!😉✈️
What an incredible evening we had at the GRSCI Annual Celebration last Thursday!
We were not just attendees, but proud sponsors of this amazing celebration and fundraiser! We’re thrilled to play a part in supporting such a fantastic organization.
We look forward to continuing this remarkable partnership and the many more celebrations to come!
What we do and why we do it! ⭐️
Also - we’re moms! of course we filmed this at our daughter’s school at their last day celebration.
Raise your hand if you want to eat tacos in Mexico with Jayda!! 🙋🏼♀️
Looking for something unique to do for Christmas this year?
The holiday season often brings a flurry of shopping, wrapping, and gift-giving, but what if this year, instead of spending a fortune on presents, you invested in an unforgettable family experience? Imagine replacing material gifts with memories that last a lifetime. Traveling internationally during...
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From cobblestone streets steeped in rich history to the irresistible flavors of local cuisine, Trujillo, Peru has something for everyone. Connect with locals and share this experience with a community of like-minded families. Bonus - partner with non-profit organization, @viveperu, in education and healthcare to serve the community! This isn't your average vacation! #TravelWithIntention #Trujillo #Explore #Travec #peru
Ready to discover the hidden gems of Trujillo? We've got a lineup of unforgettable experiences that will make your trip truly special. Here’s a sneak peek of what’s in store: Day Trip to Salpo Explore Salpo for the day including the breathtaking views from Balcon al Cielo. Huanchaco Boat Making Learn how Caballitos de Totora (traditional straw boats) are made. Ceviche and seafood lunch. Optional surfing and boat rides available Community Engagement with VivePeru Make a difference while you travel. Join us and our amazing partner @VivePeru in community projects that empower and uplift Trujillo’s local residents. Pack your bags and get ready to explore, learn, and give back. 🌍✈️ Full itinerary can be found with the link below. Itinerary link: https://bit.ly/4df3s3k
Trade in all the holiday gifts under the tree this year for an unforgettable experience with your family! Join a group of like-minded families who will celebrate the holidays in Mérida, Mexico! Think warmth and sunshine, culture, history, festivities, world-class food, fun AND relaxation. Learn more at traveltravec.com #christmasbreak #holidaytradtions #travel #familytravel #travec #grouptravel #travelgoals #travelwithintention #travelservices #merida #mexico #christmasinspiration #christmasinthesand #christmasinthesun #newtraditions #travelwithkids #travelwithus
Mérida, the "White City," is a vibrant blend of ancient Mayan heritage and colonial Spanish charm. Nestled in the Yucatán Peninsula, it’s a hub of stunning architecture, lively markets, and rich cultural traditions. Explore beautifully preserved colonial buildings, uncover the mysteries of nearby Mayan ruins, and savor the flavors of Yucatecan cuisine. Mérida offers a captivating mix of history, art, and adventure at every turn. Check out our December Mérida trip on our website!
To celebrate the opening day of the Olympics, we’re sharing recipes for iconic international cuisines! Throughout the games, join us on a culinary journey and discover the world’s favorite dishes. Which country’s cuisine would win your gold medal? 🥇 Share your favorite dish in the comments and stay tuned for more delicious recipes from around the globe! Cooking Instructions: 1.) Heat the olive oil in a large paella pan or a wide, shallow skillet over medium heat. 2.) Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened. 3.) Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. 4.) Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down and form a thick mixture. 5.) Stir in the rice, ensuring it gets coated with the oil and tomato mixture. Cook for a few minutes until the rice starts to look translucent. 6.) Pour in the broth, saffron with its soaking water, and smoked paprika. Stir well. 7.) Season with salt and pepper to taste. 8.) Nestle the chicken pieces into the rice mixture. 9.) Cook for about 10 minutes, then add the shrimp, mussels, and clams. 10.) Cook without stirring for about 20 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. If the rice starts to dry out before it’s fully cooked, add a bit more broth or water. 11.) Scatter the frozen peas over the top during the last 5 minutes of cooking. 12.) Remove the pan from heat, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest for about 5 minutes. 13.) Garnish with lemon wedges and chopped parsley before serving. #WorldCuisine #FoodieAdventures #TravelAndTaste #TheOlympics #paella
Ready to explore the vibrant heart of Spain with Travec?! Join us for a week filled with delicious local dishes, exciting day trips, and unique experiences like palace tours, bull ranch visits, and cooking classes. Come make new friends, immerse yourself in Spanish traditions, and create memories that will last a lifetime! Check out the full itinerary and pricing with the link here: https://bit.ly/3W9kkB9
Thanks to our custom travel planning, Travec was able to send Cameron and Grace on their dream honeymoon to Jackson Hole, Wyoming! Who says international destinations are the only ones worth exploring?! Our team can make any domestic trip just as special and memorable. Check us out today!🌎✈️#Travec #dreamdestinations #travelgoals #jacksonhole #customtravel #honeymoon #traveltravec
Welcome to the world of Travec!🌎✈️ Let us take you on an unforgettable adventure filled with new experiences and unforgettable memories. Check us out today! #TravecAdventures #TravelGoals #ExploreTheWorld #TravelWithPurpose
What we do and why we do it! ⭐️ Also - we’re moms! of course we filmed this at our daughter’s school at their last day celebration. #allinadayswork #momlife #momentrepreneurs #familytravel #travelwithkids #travelwithintention
Hey gals! Join us in Portugal this summer for culture, community, and comida. August 1 - 6. Visit traveltravec.com for details. #ladiestrip #grouptravel #teachertravel #traveltolisbon
Day 5!! Deep sea fishing, a market visit and ice cream cones for the kiddos, and another group dinner with Chef Eli!
Hey Michigan… let’s ditch the snow ❄️ #traveltheworld #byebyesnow #findthesunshine
The cool thing about Travec? We understand family travel first hand! We are moms who travel with our kiddos often. We know the internal battles of: “Are they too young to remember?” “How will they behave on the airplane?” “Will they be able to handle all that walking?” “Is this even worth it?” … YES - it is worth it. For you and for them. Seeing the world, learning about different people, places, cultures, and languages, and letting your children be exposed to a break in routine and new stimulation is invaluable no matter what age. Don’t believe us? Do the research… there are countless benefits of travel backed by science. So if you’re on the fence, let us help! Traveling with a community of other families is a unique and transformative experience. After all, we have never heard anyone say “I really regret taking that trip” 😉 #familytravel #travelwithkids #travelwithpurpose #grouptravel #momswhotravel
Where is Travec headed next? Take a guess in the comments! #newdestination #signaturedestination #traveloften #grouptravel #familytravel #travelwithintention
Check out our upcoming trips at traveltravec.com !
What does ‘Travec’ mean? Tra•vec. A unique name combining the words travel a avec, a French word meaning ‘with’.
What does ‘Travec’ mean? Tra•vec. A unique name combining the words travel and avec, a French word meaning ‘with’.
The Bagnall family recently returned from our most immersive experience. Signature Month! Becky, Luke, and their three kiddos spent the month exploring Quepos, Costa Rica! They took advantage of every opportunity to see, learn, and immerse in the culture. ✨ Kiddos attended El Puente school ✨ Hiked several trails ✨ Beach days with our city Host ✨ Homemade cuisine made by locals ✨ Riding the bus✨ Making new friends ✨ Worked out at a local gym And more….
2023. A year of growth, planning, and adventure. 85+ travelers were welcomed to our current programs. 20+ people traveled to Zapopan, Mexico 🇲🇽 7 families explored Madrid, Spain 🇪🇸 6 groups planned their dream vacations 👏🏻 10+ city friends, city hosts, and employees were onboarded All alongside meetings, partnership conversations, rebranding, new name, fresh website, photo shoots, and a lot of hard work. …not bad for our first full year in business. We are proud of how far we come, but even more excited to see what 2024 has in store for us!
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